Rheumatoid Arthritis and Depression

While there are ways to manage the physical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, including the chronic pain, not as easy is the task of diagnosing and managing the mental conditions that are often associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

According to one study that was published in Rheumatology and Therapy, as many as 30% of people who have a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis go on to suffer from depression within five years after the diagnosis. A chronic condition like rheumatoid arthritis means chronic pain, inconvenience, and that in turn, can prevent an individual from performing many of the activities that he or she used to perform earlier.

If you enjoyed an active life earlier, you may find it much more difficult to adjust to the limited mobility and movement brought on by rheumatoid arthritis. Active people may find it difficult to get used to the fact that they may no longer be able to participate in sports or enjoy the kind of physical or recreational activities that they used to earlier. For obvious reasons, that lack of physical mobility leads to low self-esteem, irritability, and even depression.

Feelings of helplessness are common in people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. This is a progressive condition and the pain and lack of mobility can become even worse. The uncertainty can increase the risk of depression in arthritis sufferers.

It’s important to look out for symptoms of helplessness, hopelessness, and anxiety in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Seek mental health counseling, and don’t assume that those feelings of dejection and hopelessness will simply disappear on their own.

If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Get in touch with Atlanta Social Security disability lawyer Lisa Siegel, and discuss your legal options for a claim for disability benefits.